1 win in 16 games – How Steve Clarke’s Scotland record compares to predecessors

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Held Ronaldo’s Portugal 

Scotland produced a resolute performance to hold Portugal to a goalless draw at Hampden as they gained their first point in the Nations League. Scotland had been unlucky in defeat in their previous three games but their current winless run has led to Steve Clarke facing mounting scrutiny. Clarke enjoyed unquestionable success by ending Scotland’s 23-year wait to reach a tournament by qualifying for Euro 2021 and he backed that up by reaching Euro 2024.

Scotland, however, failed to win a game at either tournament and their dismal displays in Germany last summer naturally led to question marks over Clarke’s future. The 61-year-old, however, had enough credit in the bank with the SFA and remained in position but Scotland’s current run of just one win in their last 16 games makes for uncomfortable reading. Scotland’s excellent five-game winning run in 2023 – including famous triumphs over Norway and Spain – seems a long time ago but it’s imperative to remember how Clarke galvanised the national team and instilled pride back amongst the Tartan Army after his appointment in 2019. But how does Clarke’s managerial record with Scotland compare to his predecessors? 

Despite failing to win his last eight games, Clarke’s points per game record with Scotland remains at a respectable 1.52 – friendly games have been included for all managers, despite points not being collected. The former Chelsea assistant’s record in Euros and World Cup qualifying games is more impressive with 16 wins from 26 games, which should provide confidence over Scotland’s qualification hopes for the 2026 World Cup – the number of participating teams has increased from 48 to 32. While qualifying for major international tournaments has never been easier, Clarke has led Scotland to two of three during his tenure but his record at them has rightfully been criticised. 

Despite the recent downturn in form, Clarke’s points per game record with Scotland remains the fourth best since the last manager to take Scotland to a major tournament, Craig Brown. Clarke dropped below Walter Smith (1.53) during this international break after drawing with Portugal and falling to defeat against Croatia. Alex McLeish had the best ppg record (2) during his first tenure as Scotland boss that delivered a famous win over France but he failed to qualify for Euro 2028 after losing the last two qualifying games to Georgia and Italy. Gordon Strachan ranks second but the former Celtic manager failed to qualify for an international manager across his four-year tenure. While Scotland’s performances have improved since the Euros, results haven’t and Clarke will need to end the winless streak to silence his critics.